The enthusiasm for the Movember Moustache campaign initiated by the Vernon Firefighters is igniting and showing up on the faces of the three local urologists, Dr’s Lavoie, Houle and Schulz, as well as members of the Vernon Prostate Cancer Support and Awareness Group and many of Vernon’s males.
This activity’s major goal is to create awareness of prostate cancer in men where one in six men in Canada will be diagnosed with the disease. This ratio is significantly greater than breast cancer in women where one in nine women will be diagnosed with that disease. Unlike breast cancer which frequently exhibits visible symptoms, there often are no recognizable prostate cancer symptoms — thus the need for men to become responsible about their own health care.
Currently, the most effective way for men to be screened for possible prostate cancer is to get a PSA blood test followed by a digital rectal exam by their family physician. There is no charge for the blood test if the family doctor orders it or there is a family history of prostate cancer. Vouchers for a free PSA test are available at the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation office or from members of the prostate cancer support group: call 250-549-2362. Funds for these tests come from the Do It For Dad Run/Walk.
Movember participants and community members wishing to support the Movember awareness campaign are encouraged to send all monies to the foundation office in order that the funds will be available for the fight against prostate cancer.
